Ethiopia is hopeful that the new US administration’s foreign policy will rekindle the age-long bilateral relations between the two countries that are based on mutual interests.
Ethiopia has a very long nationhood history and it always respects the sovereignty of other nations. It has never shown intention to intervene in the internal affairs of other nations. The principle for its bilateral relations is only based on mutual benefit.
As always, Ethiopia views its bilateral relations with the US in line with the principle of respecting mutual interests. Yet, the former US President, Donald Trump violated this commonly held principle of the two countries and tried to interfere in the issue of Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). And Ethiopia considered this unlawful and understands that it did not represent the great people of the US.
On the contrary, the historic victory of President Joe Biden has given hope for reigniting the historic relations of the two countries as it is also the case for the US relations with the whole world.
In his inaugural speech, President Biden said: “We will repair our alliances and engage with the world once again; not to meet yesterday’s challenges, but today’s and tomorrow’s. We will lead not merely by the example of our power but by the power of our example. We will be a strong and trusted partner for peace, progress, and security.”
Accordingly, it is the firm conviction of the Ethiopian government that the new US administration values the historical and strategic relations with Ethiopia. Ethiopia trusts that the US government will threat the historic ties between the two countries in a rational and respectful manner.
Ethiopia is also very grateful to President Joe Biden’s government for understanding and caring for Ethiopians immediately after taking office. As Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, he reaffirmed that Ethiopia-US bilateral relationship is of paramount importance.
As well, Ethiopia appreciates and shares the US’s concern about the humanitarian issues in Tigray State. The government has assured that, in collaboration with partners, it is exerting utmost effort to provide humanitarian support to the people of the region.
Likewise, Ethiopia is indebted to the US for Secretary Blinken’s reaffirmation of the US’ commitment to Ethiopia’s reform agenda and support for upcoming national election.
Besides, the US has also shown a strong will to support Ethiopia’s effort to ensure regional peace and security, democracy and human rights, justice and accountability as well as economic prosperity for all Ethiopians.
Ethiopia is also thankful to the US for understanding that the policies formulated by Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) has resulted in significant economic and political crises such as unemployment, inflation and the non-inclusive growth, as the incoming US Ambassador to Ethiopia Geeta Pasi recently said. True, TPLF had been solely monopolizing the economy and politics of the nation for about three decades.
True, the government was forced to conduct a law enforcement operation against the TPLF following the treasonous act of the junta by attacking the Northern Command of the Ethiopian National Defense Force.
As Prime-Minister Abiy has promised to widen the political space and liberalize the economy, Ethiopia commits itself to create an enabling environment to help improving average Ethiopians’ living conditions with the support of international partners like the US.
In a similar fashion, it is also ready to tackle global challenges such as the COVID-19 jointly. With the new administration in charge, it’s time to rekindle the age-long relations.
The Ethiopian Herald February 6/2021
